Psychiatrists in Richmond, VA
![Photo of Oluwaseyi Soetan, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/136e0605-0bf2-49b5-a378-46ee0fbaab54/2/320x400.jpeg)
Oluwaseyi is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner committed to providing holistic, compassionate, and personalized care. He is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has over 20 years of clinical experience in the behavioral health specialty, treating patients across the lifespan, especially adolescents, young adults, and geriatrics. My therapeutic approach to providing mental healthcare is centered around a flexible, integrative framework that draws from multiple theoretical orientations to best meet the unique needs of each individual.
Oluwaseyi is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner committed to providing holistic, compassionate, and personalized care. He is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has over 20 years of clinical experience in the behavioral health specialty, treating patients across the lifespan, especially adolescents, young adults, and geriatrics. My therapeutic approach to providing mental healthcare is centered around a flexible, integrative framework that draws from multiple theoretical orientations to best meet the unique needs of each individual.
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98bd1bc6-6d5a-4c2d-ad2f-71d1bc49fdb3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
![Photo of Dr. Rashida Gray, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36734822-e869-4a07-a989-a22f892058b7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Have you been searching for a psychiatrist, without success? Are you feeling unsatisfied with your current treatment? Needing an appointment as soon as possible? If your answers are yes, then Gray MD Psychiatry is the right choice for you. We can work together to help improve your depression, anxiety, insomnia, stress, burnout or hopelessness.
Have you been searching for a psychiatrist, without success? Are you feeling unsatisfied with your current treatment? Needing an appointment as soon as possible? If your answers are yes, then Gray MD Psychiatry is the right choice for you. We can work together to help improve your depression, anxiety, insomnia, stress, burnout or hopelessness.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5cb84d9-20a3-4549-9583-28f48ea6fb26/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Christina Stevenson, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81e1c57c-6720-448c-bcea-c59fa148036c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Stevenson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225 (Online Only)
I am a doctoral prepared Adult, Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than a decade experience. I enjoy helping people feel better and with finding a better outlook on life.
I am a doctoral prepared Adult, Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than a decade experience. I enjoy helping people feel better and with finding a better outlook on life.
Insight Physicians has been working to meet the behavioral health needs of people in the Richmond Virginia area for more than 35 years. Our clinical team is comprised of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners specialty trained in behavioral health, physician assistants and therapists. Appointments are available in person or virtually and within 7 days.
Insight Physicians has been working to meet the behavioral health needs of people in the Richmond Virginia area for more than 35 years. Our clinical team is comprised of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners specialty trained in behavioral health, physician assistants and therapists. Appointments are available in person or virtually and within 7 days.
![Photo of Saundra Trouslot, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55ec4b9e-1bc3-4330-a8cc-848facb6fdbf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Saundra L. Trouslot, NP Saundra L. Trouslot is a Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Master of Science in Nursing (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner) from Walden University, a Master in Public Health in Occupational Health Nursing from the University of North Carolina, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Colorado Mesa University.
Saundra L. Trouslot, NP Saundra L. Trouslot is a Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Master of Science in Nursing (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner) from Walden University, a Master in Public Health in Occupational Health Nursing from the University of North Carolina, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Colorado Mesa University.
![Photo of Kedian Gooden, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec696426-99fb-4699-ae76-0681780d851a/1/320x400.png)
Kedian Gooden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23223 (Online Only)
Kedian Gooden is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to assisting individuals with mental health challenges to live more productive lives and improve their functioning in society. As a PMHNP, Kedian’s role is to provide safe, quality psychiatric care to individuals and their families. She is well versed in applying an evidence-based approach to conducting a psychiatric assessment, medication evaluation, and management for a wide variety of mental health conditions. Furthermore, Kedian has over 15 years of experience in health care, working in various positions.
Kedian Gooden is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to assisting individuals with mental health challenges to live more productive lives and improve their functioning in society. As a PMHNP, Kedian’s role is to provide safe, quality psychiatric care to individuals and their families. She is well versed in applying an evidence-based approach to conducting a psychiatric assessment, medication evaluation, and management for a wide variety of mental health conditions. Furthermore, Kedian has over 15 years of experience in health care, working in various positions.
![Photo of Tegan Snigier, PsyD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c0e8acb-aeea-40b5-afa0-b4ba37458da3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has lived in both Virginia and Massachusetts. I have experience working with clients of all ages and their families.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has lived in both Virginia and Massachusetts. I have experience working with clients of all ages and their families.
![Photo of Garvey T. Dobbins, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd49f6b8-bcf3-4434-b537-fbf5928a8155/3/320x400.jpeg)
Garvey T. Dobbins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23294
We Are Accpeting New Clients! - Are you are looking for something different, dynamic, and energizing? That’s our view of how therapy should be. Sometimes it’s talking it out. Other times when it’s really rough, medication may help. At our practice, you will have access to both. We will listen to you, we will work with you, and we will push you to explore different ways of seeing yourself and seeing the world around you. The goal of therapy is to one day, no longer need it. The goal of therapy is to be able to achieve your highest potential. Consultations are always free, call today and let’s talk about a new way to do therapy.
We Are Accpeting New Clients! - Are you are looking for something different, dynamic, and energizing? That’s our view of how therapy should be. Sometimes it’s talking it out. Other times when it’s really rough, medication may help. At our practice, you will have access to both. We will listen to you, we will work with you, and we will push you to explore different ways of seeing yourself and seeing the world around you. The goal of therapy is to one day, no longer need it. The goal of therapy is to be able to achieve your highest potential. Consultations are always free, call today and let’s talk about a new way to do therapy.
![Photo of Catherine Ben-Agu, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75623a8e-57d8-46b8-9c6b-3e46d83de941/2/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine Ben-Agu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225 (Online Only)
Catherine Ben-Agu is a board certified licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner in the state of Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC. She has 8years of experience in psychiatry. Catherine attended Walden University where she completed her bachelors and masters degree in nursing. Through her many years of experience, she has been able to partner with children, adolescents, adults, as well as geriatric clients who seek help with diverse psychiatric problems.
Catherine Ben-Agu is a board certified licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner in the state of Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC. She has 8years of experience in psychiatry. Catherine attended Walden University where she completed her bachelors and masters degree in nursing. Through her many years of experience, she has been able to partner with children, adolescents, adults, as well as geriatric clients who seek help with diverse psychiatric problems.
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![Photo of Tharta R. King - Behavioral Health Alternatives, LLC, PMHNP, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6b63b59-b8f6-44cf-9512-480f8c8d153b/2/320x400.png)
Behavioral Health Alternatives, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23220
Behavioral Health Alternatives provide mental health services across the lifespan. We enhance mental health awareness, promote individual empowerment, and increase access to treatment and services for persons living with mental illness. The organization provides psychiatric assessments, medication management, and assist individuals with resources in the community. Our vision is that the community we serve understands the coordination of behavioral healthcare, substance abuse recovery, and physical healthcare is essential to overall health.
Behavioral Health Alternatives provide mental health services across the lifespan. We enhance mental health awareness, promote individual empowerment, and increase access to treatment and services for persons living with mental illness. The organization provides psychiatric assessments, medication management, and assist individuals with resources in the community. Our vision is that the community we serve understands the coordination of behavioral healthcare, substance abuse recovery, and physical healthcare is essential to overall health.
![Photo of Leanne Hyler, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22222ee9-45e5-477f-b06d-9a5805bb1cb1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I'm Leanne and I am passionate about helping people manage mental health issues with medications, diet, exercise, and self-care. I can help you overcome and better manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Seeking help can be scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve to be the best version of yourself that you can be.
Hi! I'm Leanne and I am passionate about helping people manage mental health issues with medications, diet, exercise, and self-care. I can help you overcome and better manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Seeking help can be scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve to be the best version of yourself that you can be.
![Photo of Ine Saka, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df84915d-48f0-4394-8e1b-6f8dbb72ee55/1/320x400.jpeg)
Warm Welcome! I am the founder and owner of Empathy Wellness Center. A Nurse Practitioner led practice that offers primary health as well as mental health services. At our practice we take an integrative approach to health, mental health, and overall wellness. We understand that treating the entire person is the goal, therefore, we combine medication management with lifestyle and diet modifications (where appropriate) to enhance the quality of life for our patients. We look forward to serving you. We currently offer management of Anxiety and Depression Symptoms, ADHD management, and primary care. Addiction medicine coming soon!
Warm Welcome! I am the founder and owner of Empathy Wellness Center. A Nurse Practitioner led practice that offers primary health as well as mental health services. At our practice we take an integrative approach to health, mental health, and overall wellness. We understand that treating the entire person is the goal, therefore, we combine medication management with lifestyle and diet modifications (where appropriate) to enhance the quality of life for our patients. We look forward to serving you. We currently offer management of Anxiety and Depression Symptoms, ADHD management, and primary care. Addiction medicine coming soon!
![Photo of Angela Allen Blaine, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85c02969-955d-4e48-bd8a-aee3de27df33/1/320x400.png)
Angela Allen Blaine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23223 (Online Only)
Angela Allen-Blaine is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She completed her Nursing degree at Southside Regional Medical Center School of Nursing, received her Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Old Dominion University, and her Master's degree in Nursing from Liberty University. Angela completed her post-Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner ANCC Board Certification from the University of Cincinnati and is currently working toward her doctoral degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) at Liberty University.
Angela Allen-Blaine is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She completed her Nursing degree at Southside Regional Medical Center School of Nursing, received her Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Old Dominion University, and her Master's degree in Nursing from Liberty University. Angela completed her post-Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner ANCC Board Certification from the University of Cincinnati and is currently working toward her doctoral degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) at Liberty University.
![Photo of Lis Collins - Mountain Psychiatry, RN, MS, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f7ae202-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mountain Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MS, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23220
First, I want to listen and work to ensure that you feel heard, to understand what you think is the problem, and what needs to get better. Then, we will work together to make a plan that provides relief while helping you move towards health. This process starts with a thorough psychiatric assessment and the creation of a treatment plan. These plans often have stages and seasons; there will be options and guidance. But ultimately, this is your process, and I am honored to be a part of it. I enjoy helping individuals with trauma, addiction, anxiety, psychosis, bipolar disorder, depression, and other challenges.
First, I want to listen and work to ensure that you feel heard, to understand what you think is the problem, and what needs to get better. Then, we will work together to make a plan that provides relief while helping you move towards health. This process starts with a thorough psychiatric assessment and the creation of a treatment plan. These plans often have stages and seasons; there will be options and guidance. But ultimately, this is your process, and I am honored to be a part of it. I enjoy helping individuals with trauma, addiction, anxiety, psychosis, bipolar disorder, depression, and other challenges.
![Photo of Dexter Lett, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a789b47-cfc5-4c37-aaed-0137876746f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Dexter, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to comprehensive mental health care. With over 15 years of clinical experience spanning diverse inpatient and outpatient settings, I've cared for patients across all ages, from pediatrics to geriatrics. While prescribing medications is a viable option, I prioritize patient education and understanding. I strongly believe in ensuring that patients comprehend the reasons behind their medications and encourage open discussions about their treatment plans.
Hello, I'm Dexter, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to comprehensive mental health care. With over 15 years of clinical experience spanning diverse inpatient and outpatient settings, I've cared for patients across all ages, from pediatrics to geriatrics. While prescribing medications is a viable option, I prioritize patient education and understanding. I strongly believe in ensuring that patients comprehend the reasons behind their medications and encourage open discussions about their treatment plans.
![Photo of Ike Uzowulu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67e54d37-1c94-45b4-a4fd-63db0a23fc98/2/320x400.png)
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23219 (Online Only)
Ike is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practioner with over 12 years in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. Ike is affiliated with vardsurgentpsych.com and aims to provide mental health aid to people in areas that would otherwise be impossible to reach out to via tele-health. The effects of the pandemic and current life events have highlighted the need for increased access to mental health care. Mental illness and stress can affect all aspects of our life if not treated/addressed. Being that every person is a unique individual, we should be treated with respect.
Ike is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practioner with over 12 years in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. Ike is affiliated with vardsurgentpsych.com and aims to provide mental health aid to people in areas that would otherwise be impossible to reach out to via tele-health. The effects of the pandemic and current life events have highlighted the need for increased access to mental health care. Mental illness and stress can affect all aspects of our life if not treated/addressed. Being that every person is a unique individual, we should be treated with respect.
![Photo of Dr. Kemberly Clark, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6fdb484-bdee-415b-b873-836400c293b0/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I understand the significance of trust and the impact is has on the outcomes we achieve together. I am fully aware that trust is not granted easily; it is earned through transparency, reliability, and consistently delivering exceptional results. My upmost priority is to earn your trust through my actions. words, and dedication to you as my client. Thank you for considering me as your Mental Health partner. I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to work with you and build a strong, trusting relationship.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I understand the significance of trust and the impact is has on the outcomes we achieve together. I am fully aware that trust is not granted easily; it is earned through transparency, reliability, and consistently delivering exceptional results. My upmost priority is to earn your trust through my actions. words, and dedication to you as my client. Thank you for considering me as your Mental Health partner. I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to work with you and build a strong, trusting relationship.
![Photo of Oluwaseyi Soetan - Phoenixmides Mental Health & Wellness, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40fc8d61-a474-4523-a293-2df3b3ba44f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Phoenixmides Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23235
Oluwaseyi is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner committed to providing holistic, compassionate, and personalized care. He is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has over 20 years of clinical experience in the behavioral health specialty, treating patients across the lifespan, especially adolescents, young adults, and geriatrics.
Oluwaseyi is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner committed to providing holistic, compassionate, and personalized care. He is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has over 20 years of clinical experience in the behavioral health specialty, treating patients across the lifespan, especially adolescents, young adults, and geriatrics.
See more therapy options for Richmond
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Richmond, VA
100+
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in Richmond, VA who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | ADHD |
71% | Medication Management |
64% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
84% | Aetna |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Richmond, VA see their clients
51% | In Person and Online | |
49% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
22% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Richmond?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.